.... Gen Lawson took to the podium in what he later described as a very proud and humbling moment.
He outlined his priorities in a novel fashion, delivering them not so much as objectives or milestones he would like to reach, but as personal pledges to the people of Canada, the Canadian Forces, and the gathered dignitaries and guests.
“I dedicate myself in full view of the responsibilities of the command to accepting your confidence in my abilities,” promised Gen Lawson.
“I dedicate myself to providing the highest quality military advice that you will seek. I dedicate myself and the Canadian Forces team to the careful maintenance of the many military capabilities that will be required to defend our great nation.
“I provide these pledges with the comfort that accompanies my confidence in the general and flag officers of the Canadian Forces, in our highly experienced officer cadre and non-commissioned officers, in our wonderful public service partners ... and in the tremendous underlying strength, resilience and professionalism of the Canadian solider, sailor, airman and air woman and finally in the terrific support that you and the people of our nation have provided to their Canadian Armed Forces and will continue to provide to their Canadian Armed Forces.”
He later told the media the weight of responsibility he bears for protecting the peace and security of Canada falls into three categories: “leadership, caring and preparing – leading military operations, caring for troops and making sure there is a robust force going ahead into the future”. He pledged to offer Prime Minister Harper “the best advice on which capabilities need refurbishment and replacing” ....
